Menstrual Migraine
Menstrual migraineis a migraine attack that manifests in relation to themenstrual cycle.
Compared to non-menstrual migraines, menstrual migraines tend to last longer and are more severe and resistant to treatment.
Females report stress more than males as a migraine trigger.
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Environmental Triggers
Outside, or environmental, factors are known to trigger migraines.
These triggers signal the brain to undergo changes in blood vessels and inflammation that cause a migraine attack.
Commonmigraine triggersfor females include:
4.
Genetic Influences
Genetic factors also play a pivotal role in migraine development.
So far, 171 single-nucleotide gene polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to migraine have been discovered.
SNPs are changes in the DNA sequence of a gene.
Exposure to something in the environment must also manifest for this complex disorder to arise.
Examples include:
Lifestyle
Lifestyle habits also play a vital role in migraine prevention.
They include avoiding triggers like skipping meals or not getting enough sleep.
Lastly, if a person experiences unpredictable menstrual migraines, their provider may advise amagnesium supplement.
When to See a Provider
Most migraines are not dangerous.
Seek medical help if your migraine is constant or occurring every day.
Migraine attacks in females also tend to last longer and be more severe and disabling compared to males.
These differences are attributed mainly to the natural fluctuation of the hormone estrogen.
Cyclical changes in estrogen can cause menstrual migraines.
Erratic fluctuations of estrogen levels before menopause can trigger or worsen migraine headaches.
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